Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines has announced an upcoming increase in the automatic gratuity charges applied to passengers' accounts, effective November 1st, 2024. This adjustment marks the latest in a series of gratuity hikes over the years, as the cruise line revises its pricing structure for services onboard.
Starting November 1st, gratuities will increase by US$0.50 per person, per day, raising the daily charge for standard cabins to US$18.50 (up from US$18.00) and for suites to US$21.00 (up from US$20.50). These gratuities apply uniformly to all passengers, regardless of age. For passengers who have already booked their cruise, the option to prepay gratuities at the current rate remains available until the policy takes effect, potentially offering some savings.
Additionally, Royal Caribbean has announced an 18% gratuity on services such as salon and spa treatments, as well as on beverage purchases, room service, mini-bar items, and specialty dining packages. Guests booking sailings from November 1st onwards will automatically see the revised gratuity rates reflected in their fare.
This latest change continues the trend of rising onboard service charges, underscoring the evolving costs within the cruise industry.